2 hours ago
41
Tottenham are approaching a defining moment in their season, and with Wolves up next, selection decisions could prove decisive. We have identified five players who must start for Spurs against Wolves.
It was always going to be a difficult encounter for Tottenham Hotspur in their clash against Brighton and Hove Albion at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday.
Tottenham, who are sat in the bottom three, needed three points to leave the relegation places, and they came close to doing just that until Georginio Rutter’s late equaliser left the Lilywhites with just one point despite their spirited display.
But it is not all doom and gloom for Spurs, at least according to Roberto De Zerbi, who believes his side can end on 46 points and beat the drop.
Of course, if Tottenham can build on their display against Brighton, they will end their winless 2026 run and give themselves a fighting chance in their battle for survival.
Up next is Wolves, and De Zerbi must get his selection right if his Tottenham side is to secure a win against the bottom-of-the-table side. We have now identified five players who must start in that game.
Tottenham must start Xavi Simons after Brighton performance
It does feel as though Xavi Simons took his benching in Roberto De Zerbi’s first game as Spurs boss rather personally, given his performance against Brighton.
The Dutchman was man of the match on the day, thanks to his complete performance against the Seagulls, where he grabbed an assist and a spectacular goal to send Tottenham in front for the second time on the night.
He came close to being the match-winner, but a late goal from Rutter ensured it was not to be. He covered every blade, putting in a good shift, even playing through cramps.
Such a display has to be rewarded, and there is no better way than handing him another start next weekend.
Spurs need Rodrigo Bentancur to anchor midfield vs Wolves
It came as a surprise to see Rodrigo Bentancur line up from the start against Brighton, given that he had only returned to training earlier last week.
But given Spurs’ predicament, there is no room for easing in, and so Bentancur was thrown straight into the fire.
Ahead of the clash against the Seagulls, many Tottenham fans expressed their delight at Bentancur’s return, and he did not disappoint.
The Uruguayan played as though he had not missed a minute of competitive football, anchoring the midfield and shielding the back four.
He did a good job keeping possession and ensured he linked midfield to attack, something that has been lacking in recent weeks. Fatigue later set in, and he had to be taken off, but with Wolves next, he should start again as he builds match sharpness.
Tottenham should keep Yves Bissouma in starting XI vs Wolves
Yves Bissouma’s career at Tottenham looked dead in the water, given his falling out with Thomas Frank and the injury issues he has had to deal with for most of the season.
However, it was clear from De Zerbi’s selection on Saturday that he wanted experienced heads in his side as he went in search of his first win in 2026.
Bissouma was thrown into the mix in a similar fashion to Bentancur, lacking match sharpness after not featuring for a long period.
Regardless, the Malian was impressive in midfield, focusing on winning the ball and shielding the back four. He offered cover, and with him on the pitch Spurs looked more secure; if he produces a similar display next week, Tottenham will be closer to a victory.
Spurs must start Destiny Udogie for balance vs Wolves
Tottenham still do not have a natural left winger in their side, at least based on De Zerbi’s setup in his last two outings.
Mathys Tel is yet to feature from the off, while Richarlison was used on the left against Sunderland in De Zerbi’s first game as boss before being benched against Brighton.
Simons came into the side for the Brazilian, but operated more centrally, leaving Destiny Udogie to hold the width, and he did an excellent job in that role.
Being naturally left-footed allows for better balance, as he can deliver crosses without cutting inside. Against Brighton, he also offered a wide threat, getting to the byline and into the box.
Djed Spence is his main competition, but he has done little of note off the bench. For balance, Udogie has to keep his place and start against Wolves.
Tottenham goalkeeping decision: Keep Kinsky in goal vs Wolves
The goalkeeping department is one De Zerbi might be considering carefully, given that Guglielmo Vicario is nearing a return from hernia surgery.
The Italian has missed the last two games, with Kinsky deputising in his absence. The Czech international has done well, putting little wrong despite conceding a couple of goals, with few down to his own error.
To have bounced back after his howlers against Atletico Madrid is commendable. Kinsky should continue in goal against Wolves, largely because of his ability in possession.
He takes his time to pick a pass when going short, while his longer distribution is often targeted rather than aimless.
His teammates also seem to trust him on the ball, and with five games left, it makes sense to continue with a capable option.
Have something to tell us about this article?
English (US) ·